Severe bleeding can occur from arteries, veins, or capillaries and cause death within minutes if not treated. Direct pressure, elevation, and digital pressure are emergency treatments for severe bleeding. Direct pressure involves pressing a sterile dressing firmly over the wound for 10-15 minutes until bleeding stops. Elevation above the heart slows blood flow and speeds clotting. Digital pressure is applied at pressure points on bones near arteries to control blood flow and must only be used briefly as an addition to direct pressure and elevation.